The Battle of the Coral Sea, fought from May 4 to May 8, 1942, was a pivotal moment in the Pacific War that changed the course of history. A clash that took place far from the headlines of Europe, it would prove… [Read more…]
The Battle of the Coral Sea, fought from May 4 to May 8, 1942, was a pivotal moment in the Pacific War that changed the course of history. A clash that took place far from the headlines of Europe, it would prove to be a turning point, offering a glimpse of the new age of warfare, where aircraft and carriers, not battleships, would lead the charge. The backdrop to this battle … [Read more…]
In May, we recognize Jewish American Heritage Month—an opportunity to honor the remarkable contributions of Jewish Americans in every walk of life. Among the most inspiring is the story of US Army Corporal Tibor "Ted" Rubin, a Holocaust survivor, immigrant, Korean War hero, and Medal of Honor recipient. His life reflects unparalleled resilience, selflessness, and … [Read more…]
In the long history of the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award, only one woman has ever earned the distinction. Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, a physician, abolitionist, and women's rights advocate, broke through societal barriers not only with her pioneering work in medicine but also through her tireless service during the Civil War. Awarded the Medal of Honor in … [Read more…]
Leonard Glenn Francis, better known as “Fat Leonard,” is appealing his 15-year prison sentence. He argues that his punishment is excessive. In a way, he’s right - at least when compared to the Navy officers who took his bribes, compromised national security, defrauded the American people, and walked away nearly untouched. Leonard may be behind bars, but the uncomfortable … [Read more…]
It can be said that the need to band together in groups is intrinsic to what makes us human beings. Long before the dawn of civilization, humans gathered together in like-minded groups in order to offer one another protection, defend resources, and share the mental and physical challenges of survival. Forming a cooperative group, or herd, may have been one of the earliest human … [Read more…]
“If God is for us, then who can be against us?” - Quote from both sides in any conflict Their course finally brought them into favorable tailwinds. Though they were able to throttle back a little, Chief had them still press strongly above cruising speed to bank a little extra time on the objective if needed -- a simple but brilliant call on Greg's part. The gunships flew … [Read more…]
Some men are forged in the crucible of hardship, tested not just by the enemy, but by the weight of responsibility they carry for the men at their side. Staff Sergeant Travis W. Atkins was one of those men—a soldier whose final act in Iraq was as selfless as it was heroic, earning him the Medal of Honor and a place among the legends of American valor. Montana Roots and the … [Read more…]
The 41st annual Best Ranger Competition concluded this weekend, showcasing the pinnacle of military endurance and skill. Among the 52 elite two-man teams, First Lt. Gabrielle White made history as the first female soldier to compete in this grueling event. The Ultimate Test of Soldiering The 2025 Best Ranger Competition, held from April 11 to 13 at Fort Benning, Georgia, … [Read more…]
A Young Ohioan Enlists Born on July 17, 1843, in Fairfield County, Ohio, Jacob Wilson Parrott was a cabinetmaker by trade before he joined the Union Army in 1861. He enlisted as a private in Company K of the 33rd Ohio Infantry, a unit that would soon be thrust into one of the most audacious missions of the Civil War. Parrott first saw combat at the Battle of Ivy Mountain, but … [Read more…]
This is going to be a different kind of article for me. Back in 2012, about the same time Brandon founded SOFREP, I began answering military-type questions on Quora. If you are not familiar with the platform, it was started back in 2010 by two former Facebook employees to be a place where people could go to ask questions and provide answers on a wide range of topics. In time, I … [Read more…]
As horrible at it is, war has a way of allowing ordinary people to do extraordinary things. To show their true colors. Such is the case of Gary George Wetzel one of America's 61 living Medal of Honor recipients. His extraordinary courage during the Vietnam War earned him the Medal of Honor and a place in the pantheon of American heroes. Early Life: Growing up in the … [Read more…]
A Long-Awaited Recognition On April 8, 2025, the U.S. Army will posthumously award the Silver Star to Staff Sgt. Bryan C. Black for his extraordinary heroism during a 2017 ambush in Niger. This ceremony, set to take place in his hometown of Puyallup, Washington, acknowledges Black's selfless actions that ultimately cost him his life. The Fateful Mission in Niger The … [Read more…]
